Analysis: Region IV playoff preview

Updated 10:34 pm, Wednesday, November 14, 2012

Favorite: Madison (8-2) — The Mavericks are set to follow last year's state semifinal run after sweeping District 26-5A. Marquis Warford has rushed for 1,453 yards this season and the defense is allowing 19.5 points per game, down from 31.5 points last season.

Team you don't want to face: O'Connor (8-2) — A high-powered offense led by RB Tre Johnson and QB Zach Galindo could lead the Panthers past the second round for the second time in school history.

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Game we'd like to see: Madison vs. Judson (7-3) — Last year's playoff matchup came down to a last-minute score by the Mavericks.

5A DIVISION II

Favorite: Steele (10-0) — Redemption has been Steele's theme all season after a loss in last year's state championship game. It's Steele's only loss in its past 39 games.

Team you don't want to face: Smithson Valley (10-0) — Could this be the year for the Rangers' first state title? They've beaten opponents by 28 points per game this season.

Game we'd like to see: Steele vs. Smithson Valley — They've been the area's No. 1 (Steele) and No. 2 (Smithson Valley) teams since the second week of the season.

4A DIVISION I

Favorite: Leander (9-1) — The Lions, led by Texas Tech-bound RB Caleb Woodward, played in the toughest district in the region, with a 14-10 loss to Cedar Park as their lone blemish.

Team you don't want to face: Alamo Heights (8-2) — Don't be scared off by the season finale loss to Hays. The Mules still are a dangerous team thanks in large part to a standout defense led by LBs Nick Uretsky and Blake Klumpp.

Game we'd like to see: Alamo Heights vs. Leander — San Antonio's best against Central Texas' best in a potential state quarterfinal matchup.

4A DIVISION II

Favorite: Brennan (10-0) — The Bears have been the area's No. 1 sub-5A team all season for good reason. Brennan dominated its district and will be well-rested. But how will it handle the added pressure of the playoffs?

Team you don't want to face: Port Lavaca Calhoun (9-0) — The Sandcrabs, ranked No. 8 in Texas, are as talented as ever but could be overlooked in a deep region.

Game we'd like to see: Brennan vs. Cedar Park (8-2) — The Bears have never won a playoff game, while Cedar Park has been one of the state's best programs in recent years. A win would further legitimize Brennan's stellar season.